Should partying, nudity be banned in Arts District?

Residents and business owners in and around south McAllen's proposed Arts District as well as this week voiced their opposition to a drafted ordinance that failed to address several crucial issues.

The ordinance, which was drafted in April, would establish the official rules and regulations of the city's Arts District. But the most recent version has been met with little enthusiasm from several invested parties. 

At two separate meetings this week, the residents said they oppose several aspects of the document, including the proposed rules regarding restaurant alcohol sales, parking and noise.

Roosevelt's at 7 has been put in the center of the discussions, accused by some of fostering a party atmosphere in an area meant for fine art.

The activities that would take place inside the Arts District were also a matter of debate.

Business owners like Art House owner Mayra Brown want the city to have less control over art-related events that take place in the Arts District. She said commissioners had recently discussed the possibility of banning of nude sketch classes, for example.
Brown said she understands that the Arts District's proximity to schools and day cares complicates the matter, but she believes there's nothing inherently harmful or negative about nudity --- especially when in the context of art.

Many of the issues stem from the Art Walk, which in recent months has attracted more traffic and controversy. 

Check back on www.themonitor.com or www.festivarocks.com for continuing updates on the controversy.